The River Under the Bridge

River under the bridgeThis photo is similar to one I took for a previous post, but is a wider shot that shows two bridges with the river flowing underneath. I love how the bridges and trees frame the river, and the brightness of the sun on the water. A picture like this can inspire so many projects! A similar photo could be framed and displayed on a shelf or wall. You could take the colors in the picture-green, grey, brown, blue-and use them as your decorating theme. Add these colors to your space by using throw pillows, vases, faux foliage, or other accessories to bring the outdoors in. It’s amazing how one photo can inspire a myriad of projects to update and decorate your space. You can use your favorite photo to not only to display a great shot, but also to inspire a decorating theme that’s uniquely you!

The Sun Drifting through the Pine

Split pine with sunHello, and welcome to my 100th post! I decided to post a picture of this unique looking pine tree I noticed along a walking path. I was even able to take the picture with the sun shining down through the upper branches. I love finding unique pieces in nature! Not only are they fun to look at, but they’re also free. A photo like this would look great in a den or office. The earth tones go with any decor, and the sun shining down gives an element of warmth to any space. Next time you go to your local park or beach, look for the uniqueness in nature. Once you take a photo of what you find, you can bring the outside in and create a feeling of warmth all year long.

Here’s to another 100 posts-look for more tips and great things to come!

Shower Curtain Art

Shower curtain_butterfliesMany would argue that one of the hardest places to decorate is a bathroom. Most are small, windowless, and seem to offer little in the way of decorating. However, a great piece of inspiration can be your very own shower curtain! My shower curtain (right) is a great example. It features butterflies in multiple colors along with various types of foliage. To begin your design project, start by taking pictures of each individual element in the curtain, such as each butterfly and sections of the foliage. Once you’re done, frame each photo and hang them on the wall(s). You can display all the photos at once, or swap them out every few months to give the bathroom a fresh look. This same project would also work for those of you with geometric patterned shower curtains. Remember, it’s often what’s around you that can provide the best inspiration for your space!

The Carnation

Carnation_pink and whiteTo the right is another flower that was part of the bouquet mentioned in my previous post. I love the pink and cream color of this carnation! This flower inspires me to create a pink and white color scheme. Adding these colors can be done several ways depending on how intense you want the look to be. You can add pink and cream accent walls to a room for a bold punch of color, or simply add accessories. A lamp, throw, or ottoman in a pink and cream pattern will give you that pop of color without overwhelming the space. And remember, since it’s back to school time you can find great deals on accessories at your local big box stores. Now’s the perfect time to get great accessories at great prices!

The Blooming Rose

Blooming roseThis week I received a pretty bouquet as a going-away present from a co-worker. It included roses, lilies, and carnations. The roses were closed up in the morning, but by the next day they had really opened up. I took a picture of one rose (right) and thought I’d post it to my blog. I love how intricate the rose looks-the multiple layers of the petals is amazing. Besides adding a pop of color and interest to my space, it also gave me an idea! If you get a bouquet with various types of flowers, why not turn it into an art project? Take a picture of each flower, then frame it. You can group all the pictures together or spread them out on multiple walls. So next time you get a bouquet, use your camera to enjoy those flowers year-round!

Watching the Boats on a Sunny Day

Sail boat_park beachAs I was enjoying my day at the park I couldn’t help but watch all the boats going up and down the waterway. It was fun seeing all the different type of boats that people were enjoying. Some were simple row boats while others had yachts. But I’m particularly drawn to sail boats. I love the simple design and how it represents a classic nautical theme. Boats like this are the perfect inspiration to add a bit of nautical whimsy into your space! It can be as simple as a picture, pillows with a boat design, or even nautical rope decorating a shelf. Those these may seem like minor changes, even the smallest element can make a big impact in your space. Have a nautical element that inspires you? If so, it’s time to bring it into your space and let your style shine!

Shell Wings

Shell wingsWhen I saw this shell sitting on the sand I immediately thought it looked like a pair of wings. I like the contrast of the pale shell against the wet sand. It’s awesome that you can see the sun reflected in the left ‘wing.’ A photo like this would look great as a centerpiece on a wall. This type of photo is not only unique, but the earth tones go with every decor. Have a photo you took of nature? Dig it out and use it to freshen up your space! Remember, no matter what decorating scheme you use, you can always find something new to go with your style!

Beach Flowers

Purple beach flowersAs I was walking on the beach I noticed some color out of the corner of my eye. I turned to investigate and found some beautiful purple flowers. It’s always interesting how flowers can thrive in a beach environment. I love the combination of green and purple-it’s such a lovely combination! In fact, it would make a great design theme. Adding in pops of purple and green, or a similar floral pattern, is a great way to bring the summer vibe into your space. Remember, it doesn’t take a lot or time of money to spruce up your space. Whether you opt for a whole room update or a quick addition to a couch or shelf, you can easily bring a summer vibe into your space!

The Shell in the Grass

Shell on the grassWhen I saw this shell in the sand I thought it would really stand out against the green grass. So, I moved it and took a picture. I love the contrast of the earth tone shell against the sea grass. Once again, it’s the simple photos that make the biggest impact. The photo of the shell against the grass is awe-inspiring. The combination of earth tones and green is always a great color scheme to use in your space. Try having your basic color schemes in neutrals and then use pops of green to add interest. Not only is this classic, but will give your space a chic beach look that can be enjoyed all season long.

The White Flower

The white flowerWhile walking around the lake I noticed this white flower that was attached to a vine growing on a fence. I’m not sure what species of flower it is, but I thought it would make a good photo. Sometimes it’s the simplest of images that are the best. I love how the white flower stands out against the green leaves. It’s a simple image that packs a punch! This photo would look great blown up to poster size and used as a focal point on a wall. Remember, a focal point can be a simple, elegant image that grabs your attention and soothes your mind.